Do you experience irresistible urge to move your legs while resting, especially at night? Are you one of those who dismisses this as just tiredness, poor circulation, or muscle fatigue? You are not alone! Several people with these Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) symptoms do so too. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that can significantly affect sleep quality and overall well-being.
Dr. Rahul Chawla, Consultant Neurologist at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Vasant Kunj, says many patients with Restless Legs Syndrome remain undiagnosed for years because they believe their symptoms are simply due to stress, aging, or long working hours. In this blog, we help you understand the symptoms, underlying causes, and Restless Legs Syndrome treatment options.
Table of Contents
What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is a neurological movement disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs at night. The symptoms usually appear during periods of rest or inactivity and are often worse in the evening or at night.
Moving the legs temporarily relieves the discomfort, but the symptoms often return once the person sits or lies down again.
Common Restless Legs Syndrome Symptoms
Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms usually become more noticeable during periods of rest and may gradually worsen over time.
Common symptoms include:
- An irresistible urge to move the legs at night
- Crawling, tingling, pulling, or itching sensations inside the legs
- Symptoms that worsen while sitting or lying down
- Temporary relief after walking or stretching
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Frequent waking during the night
- Daytime tiredness due to poor sleep
Many patients describe the sensation as if “something is crawling inside the legs” or feel compelled to keep moving to find relief.
What Causes Restless Legs Syndrome?
The exact cause of Restless Legs Syndrome is not always known, but several medical conditions can increase the risk.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Iron deficiency
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Peripheral nerve disorders
- Certain medications
- Family history of Restless Legs Syndrome
Although the condition can affect people of any age, it becomes more common with increasing age.
Dr. Rahul Chawla, leading Restless Legs Syndrome Specialist in Delhi, says, “Persistent discomfort in the legs that worsens at night should never be ignored. Identifying the underlying cause can significantly improve sleep quality and overall quality of life.”
How Is Restless Legs Syndrome Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on a detailed medical history, neurological examination, and assessment of symptoms.
Investigations may include:
- Neurological examination
- Blood tests to check iron levels
- Vitamin B12 evaluation
- Kidney function tests
- Blood sugar assessment
- Evaluation for underlying neurological disorders
Since there is no single test for Restless Legs Syndrome, careful clinical evaluation is important to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Restless Legs Syndrome Treatment in South Delhi
Restless Legs Syndrome treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause.
Management may include:
- Medications to reduce symptoms
- Iron supplementation if deficiency is present
- Regular physical activity
- Good sleep hygiene
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- Treatment of associated medical conditions
Many patients experience significant improvement once the underlying cause is identified and treated.
When Should You Consult a Neurologist?
Do not ignore persistent discomfort in your legs, especially if it regularly interferes with your sleep.
You should seek neurological evaluation by a neurologist for Restless Legs Syndrome if you experience:
- An uncontrollable urge to move your legs every night
- Tingling or crawling sensations while resting
- Difficulty sleeping because of leg discomfort
- Symptoms that are becoming more frequent
- Daytime fatigue caused by poor sleep
At ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Dr. Rahul Chawla provides:
- Restless Legs Syndrome evaluation and treatment
- Sleep-related neurological disorder assessment
- Parkinson’s disease management
- Neuropathy treatment
- Movement disorder evaluation
- Comprehensive neurological consultations
Visit ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Vasant Kunj
Consult Dr. Rahul Chawla, leading neurologist in South Delhi, for accurate diagnosis and evidence-based management of sleep-related movement disorders and a wide spectrum of complex neurological conditions. He offers personalised, patient-focused Restless Legs Syndrome treatment in South Delhi at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Vasant Kunj.
Serving patients from:
Vasant Kunj, Saket, Hauz Khas, RK Puram, Green Park, Malviya Nagar, Greater Kailash, South Extension, Safdarjung Enclave, and nearby South Delhi areas.
Book Appointment:
Call: +91 96259 60259
Get online consultations and second opinions with Dr. Rahul Chawla through the HealthPil portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome?
Common Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms are the irresistible urge to move the legs, along with crawling, tingling, pulling, or uncomfortable sensations that worsen during rest and improve with movement.
Is Restless Legs Syndrome a neurological disorder?
Yes. Restless Legs Syndrome is a neurological movement disorder that affects the nervous system and commonly interferes with sleep. Proper evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and guide Restless Legs Syndrome treatment.
Where can I consult a neurologist for Restless Legs Syndrome in South Delhi?
Patients can consult Dr. Rahul Chawla, Consultant Neurologist at ISIC Multispeciality Hospital, Vasant Kunj, for diagnosis and treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome and other movement disorders.
How can I book an online appointment with Dr. Rahul Chawla?
Patients can call +91 96259 60259 to book an appointment with Dr. Rahul Chawla. Online consultations and second opinions are also available through the HealthPil app.
Content Details
Written By
Dr. Rahul Chawla
MBBS, MD Medicine, DM Neurology (AIIMS Delhi)
